1215 is the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta ("The Great Charter"), one of the most famous historical documents in history. It established for the first time the principle that everybody, including the king, was subject to the law. Most of the clauses granted by King John dealt with specific grievances from the barons relating to his rule. However, included within them were a number of fundamental values , including the clause that gave all "free men" the right to justice and a fair trial. Some of Magna Carta's key principles are echoed in the United States Bill of Rights, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights. Although most of its clause have been repealed in English law, it remains of major importance because of its defence against arbitrary power and tyrannical rulers.
Take a look at the following websites and videos to find out more about Magna Carta.
The British Library site on Magna Carta
Melvyn Bragg's Radio 4 series on the Magna Carta
Just how important is the Magna Carta 800 years on
In Our Time on Magna Carta
Here is a nicely produced video explaining why Magna Carta was issued:
And now is a Timelines TV video about the signing of Magna Carta:
